The Oxford and Cambridge Boat RaceOxford and Cambridge are the oldest and most famous universities in Britain,and there has always been a great rivalry between the two institutions.But the most public competition between the two is the annual Boat Race.Both universities are located near rivers,and rowing is a popular and prestigious sport.The very first race took place in 1829,when a Cambridge student challenged a school-friend studying at Oxford.Ever since, the defeated team from the previous year challenges the opposition to a rematch.The only times when no Boat Races took place were during the First and Second World Wars.The race is between two crews of eight rowers,each led by a pilot, who steers and gives commands to the rowers.Since 1836, the rowing eights have worn different shades of blue- Oxford wear dark blue and Cambridge light blue.As a result, the rowers are known as the Blues.
